Audio Guide: Best of Lower Manhattan Walking Tour (Self Guided), New York

Every part of Manhattan is terrific, but if you are looking for one that showcases the best overview of New York City’s history and architectural styles, it’s Lower Manhattan. This is where it all started, where New Amsterdam was founded, where Canal Street used to be a canal, and where Wall Street used to be a wall marking the end of town. It’s also where the city has seen the most tragedy, from terrible fires to terrorist attacks that have reshaped the skyline.

Today, it’s a place where the old and new converge, where Colonial churches and classical structures stand in the shadow of high risers, together making for a memorable sight to behold.

Venture down to Lower Manhattan to see how the area came back to life after the heavy blow of September 11, 2001. Hours can be spent discovering newly-developed sites such as the new World Trade Center complex, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and the adjoining Liberty Park. It’s all very walkable and quite stunning visually! By all means, visit these locations, but keep in mind that most New Yorkers don’t see them as mere tourist attractions.

Look no further than Battery Park for a walk along the water with refreshing views of Staten Island, Lady Liberty, the Staten Island Ferry, and parts of New Jersey. Named for the British cannons that once protected New York, the park has more than twenty statues and monuments, as well as newer attractions like the SeaGlass Carousel, an aquatic-themed merry-go-round.

If you fancy some historic sights, go to Fraunces Tavern where George Washington bid farewell to his troops, the Federal Hall where he took the oath of office as the first US President, or the Trinity Church where he once worshipped.

In the world’s financial capital, you also owe yourself a walk through Wall Street, home of the New York Stock Exchange and the NASDAQ, leading to the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, where you can see the entire city.

To find your way around this plethora of landmarks and not get lost, follow our self-guided walking tour and enjoy your time in New York City!